Professional Experience

Dr. Webster focuses her research and professional activities in the area of stochastic hydrology. In particular, she is interested in the impacts of climate variability, climate change and land use changes on the magnitude, frequency, and timing of flood flows. The effects of such changes on stream ecology and water quality are also of interest. The investigation of these impacts involves modeling and simulation of environmental, hydrologic, and hydraulic processes, as well as an understanding of atmospheric and biological processes. Dr. Webster is also actively involved in efforts to revise the guidelines for flood frequency analysis in the United States. Much of her research has involved evaluation of the procedures currently employed by federal agencies. She has developed more efficient and valid methods where appropriate. The need for accurate flood quantile estimates is widely recognized, particularly when the natural variability of the hydrologic cycle and the impacts of climate change and climate variability are so uncertain, and more and more of the U.S. population and industry is at risk of flooding.